The Architect of Silicon Valley: A Legacy in Technology and Philanthropy
David Packard was born on September 7, 1912, in Pueblo, Colorado, to a family where his father was a lawyer, and his mother was a teacher. From a young age, Packard showed a keen interest in science and engineering, constructing his first radio while still in elementary school. His early life in the rugged environment of Colorado instilled in him a work ethic and a love for the outdoors that would persist throughout his life.
Packard pursued his passion at Stanford University, where he majored in electrical engineering, graduating in 1934. It was at Stanford that he met Bill Hewlett, with whom he would share a lifelong partnership. After graduation, Packard briefly worked for General Electric in New York but returned to Stanford to complete his master’s degree in electrical engineering.
In 1939, with Hewlett, Packard co-founded Hewlett-Packard (HP) in a one-car garage in Palo Alto, California, with an initial investment of $538. Their first product was an audio oscillator, which gained attention from Walt Disney Studios for use in “Fantasia.” While Hewlett was the technical mastermind, Packard was the business strategist, fostering what would become known as “The HP Way,” emphasizing employee welfare, innovation, and community involvement.
Packard served in various executive roles at HP, including president from 1947 to 1964, CEO from 1964 to 1968, and chairman from 1964 to 1968 and then from 1972 to 1993. His leadership helped HP grow from a small startup into a global technology giant, known for its quality products ranging from test equipment to computers.
Beyond HP, Packard’s influence was felt in government when he served as U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense from 1969 to 1971 under President Richard Nixon. His approach to management and efficiency in the military sector was a testament to his problem-solving skills outside the corporate world.
Packard was also a prodigious philanthropist. With his wife, Lucile, he established the David and Lucile Packard Foundation in 1964, which has become one of the largest private foundations in the U.S., focusing on conservation, science, and children’s health. One of his notable contributions was the founding of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, driven by his daughters’ interest in marine biology.
Less known is Packard’s love for fishing and his efforts in conservation, particularly in the protection of rivers and streams. He also had a significant impact on Stanford University, where he served as a trustee, and his family’s donations have led to significant developments on campus.
David Packard died on March 26, 1996, leaving behind a legacy that transcends technology. His vision for both business and philanthropy has shaped Silicon Valley’s ethos, emphasizing innovation, integrity, and social responsibility.
Further Reading:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Packard
https://www.hp.com/us-en/hp-information/about-hp/history/david-packard.html
https://www.packard.org/our-history/david-packard
https://nae.edu/19973/MemorialTributes/Vol/7/19973/MemorialTributesVol7.pdf